New Zealand pacer Jess Kerr believes the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 warm-up fixtures are vital for preparing the White Ferns ahead of their opening clash against defending champions Australia on October 1.
With just seven days to go before New Zealand’s campaign kicks off, Kerr highlighted the importance of adjusting to Indian conditions and using match practice to fine-tune strategies.
Adapting to India’s heat and conditions
Kerr, who participated in a recent training camp in Dubai, said the sessions helped the squad acclimatize to high temperatures and different pitch conditions.
“First of all, it was about adjusting to the heat and playing on open wickets after a long winter. The warm-up games really helped us simulate different scenarios we might face,” Kerr explained.
“Getting this game time is crucial because we haven’t had much of it this year. It allows us to figure out our plans and find ways to win, which will be key for the first game against Australia.”
Earlier in the month, the White Ferns also held a two-week training camp in Chennai at the Chennai Super Kings academy under head coach Ben Sawyer and assistant Craig McMillan, where Kerr and her teammates focused on drills and India-specific strategies.
“The Chennai camp was hugely valuable. Working with coaches experienced in Indian conditions gave us insights into what works well here,” Kerr added.
Mentoring the pace attack
Kerr will lead New Zealand’s pace attack alongside Bree Illing, who will make her World Cup debut.
“It’s exciting to have Bree in the squad. As a left-armer with extra pace, she brings a different dimension. She’s had success domestically and internationally, and I know she’ll shine,” Kerr said.
“Our role as experienced bowlers is to support her, but she’ll also bring her own strengths to the table.”
Looking to build on past success
Kerr, who was part of New Zealand’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup-winning squad alongside her sister Melie Kerr, is eager to translate that success to the 50-over format.
“It’s about enjoying the experience, staying in the present, and coming together as a team. That mindset will help us perform when it matters most,” she said.
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 begins on September 30, with matches spread across India and Sri Lanka.